Preparation, microstructure and properties of magnesium-γMg^sub 17^Al^sub 12^ complex metallic alloy in situ composites

Magnesium based alloys containing γ Mg17Al12 complex phases have been prepared by solidification. Owing to a methodology based on Scheil Gulliver calculation, a series of composites with controlled volume fraction of γ phase has been obtained. According to SEM and TEM observations, the microstructures of the Mg-γ composites consists in magnesium rich dendrites in various fraction embedded in a eutectic mixture formed by γ phase and Mg rich fibers. Preliminary investigations of the mechanical and electrical behaviors of the composites have been carried out. Microstructures and properties of the Mg-γMg17Al12 in situ composite series are discussed with respect to in situ composites containing Bulk Metallic glasses.